Liverpool defeats Leicester in Boxing Day win

Liverpool extended their Premier League lead with a convincing 3-1 victory over Leicester City at Anfield on Boxing Day. In a match filled with drama and chances, Cody Gakpo proved instrumental, scoring the equalizer and setting up Mohamed Salah for the decisive third goal.

Foggy doubts give way to a fiery start

Concerns over heavy mist at Anfield raised questions about whether the game would go ahead, but kickoff proceeded as scheduled. Liverpool started strongly, creating their first chance just four minutes in when Mohamed Salah tested Leicester’s defense. However, it was the visitors who struck first. In the sixth minute, Jordan Ayew capitalized on a pass from Stephy Mavididi to slot the ball past Alisson, giving Leicester a surprising early lead.

Gakpo breaks through after missed opportunities

Liverpool quickly regained control, launching wave after wave of attacks. Cody Gakpo, who started the match with visible determination, missed a golden opportunity from an offside position. Salah and Andy Robertson came close, with Robertson’s effort hitting the post and Salah seeing his shot denied by the crossbar. The equalizer finally came just before halftime when Gakpo cut inside and fired a precise shot past the Leicester goalkeeper, leveling the score 1-1.

Jones puts Liverpool ahead early in the second half

The momentum carried into the second half, and Liverpool wasted no time taking the lead. In the 49th minute, Curtis Jones found the net with a composed finish, set up beautifully by Alexis Mac Allister. With a 2-1 advantage, Liverpool continued to press, creating numerous chances. Darwin Núñez came close on several occasions but was unable to convert.

Salah seals the win with Gakpo's help

Despite missing earlier opportunities, Salah remained a constant threat. In the 82nd minute, Gakpo turned provider, delivering a perfectly timed assist for Salah, who coolly finished to secure the 3-1 victory. The goal marked a fitting end to a dominant performance by Arne Slot’s side.

Liverpool tightens grip on the title race

With this win, Liverpool extends their lead over second-placed Chelsea to seven points while still holding a game in hand. The result not only highlights Liverpool's attacking prowess but also underscores Gakpo’s growing influence under Slot. Leicester, managed by Ruud van Nistelrooij, showed flashes of promise but were ultimately outclassed by the league leaders. Liverpool will look to build on this performance as they continue their charge toward Premier League glory.